Scuola Grande Di San Giovanni Evangelista: "Opera for free" Top 5 Page for this destination Venice Nightlife Tip by suvanki

SAN POLO
VAPORETTI -SAN TOMA or FERROVIA

I enjoy wandering around Venice at night, when it takes on a different atmosphere.
I was pleasantly surprised to find myself at the distinctive entrance to the Scuola Grande di San Giovanni Evangelista. I had stumbled on it a few years ago, and had been intrigued by this impressive gateway, but it looked even more impressive, with the candle-lit courtyard.

Passing through, into the courtyard, I could hear an operatic performance from one of the rooms above. A poster informed that it was La Traviata. I was quite happy to stand and listen, and enjoy the atmosphere. In a corner 'hidden away' were 2 men in costume (pic 2) enjoying a smoke, nearby were a couple of black hats and the long beaked white masks. I wasn't sure if they were part of the performance, or if they were there to greet the audience leaving the opera. They were happy enough to have their photo taken.

The Scuola was built in 1261. It is well known for its impressive Salone, which contains works of art by Tintoretto and Tiepolo amongst other Venetian artists and has excellent acoustics.

Throughout Venice, Palaces, un-consecrated churches and Scualas are venues for Operatic performances, probably some of these are considered to be 'for the tourists', and some will be better than others.
Hotel receptions often have 'flyers' for productions, or look out for posters and billboards.

For more information about this and other performances VENICE OPERA AND OPERETTA

The Fenice Opera House is considered to be the place to see the best productions of Opera and ballet. Most of the audience will be local. Tickets cost from 20 - 60 Euros, some of these cheaper seats have 'poor visibility'. You can also purchase 'listen only' seats for 10 Euros. Teatro Malibran also has Operatic performances.

I was more than happy enough with my free 'listen only' spot.

Dress Code: Now, this is a FAQ-What should I wear to the opera in Venice? I should have hung around until the end, and snapped some pics of the audience.

Well, after some googling- It appears that anything from Evening wear and furs to 'everyday street wear' are the norm. I should imagine street wear doesn't include shorts and vest tops though!

From my experience, some of these churches/palaces etc can be pretty cold (particularly in winter, when thermals, scarves, hats and gloves are worn to concerts).

Gala nights etc are the occasion for 'Black Tie'

Address: Campiella della Scuola San Polo, 2454 - 30125
Directions: North of the Frari. In the very centre of San Polo sestieri.
From San Toma, head for Frari or San Polo churches, then towards Ferrovia and ask.. sorry it's not easy to describe... I just stumbled on it!
othercontact: info@scuolasangiovanni.it
Phone: 041 71 82 34
Theme: Live Music
Website: http://www.scuolasangiovanni.it/index.php?page=26&lang=en